Supported sub-nanometer Ta oxide clusters as model catalysts for the selective epoxidation of cyclooctene

The preparation of organic ligand-free, isolated tantalum oxide complexes (Ta1) and small clusters (Tan>1) on flat silicate supports was accomplished by ultra-high vacuum (UHV) techniques followed by oxidation in air. The resulting surface complexes were thoroughly characterized and tested as supported catalysts for the epoxidation of cycloalkenes. The observed catalytic performance highlights the potential of the applied method for the production of active catalysts and the study of well-defined, ligand-free metal oxide moieties.